Lute Olson: Attacking with the 1-4 Offense

with Lute Olson,former University of Arizona Head Coach;1997 NCAA Champions,2002 Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee

Hall of Fame coach Lute Olson has registered over 1,000 victories at all levels in his legendary career. His brand of fast-paced and discipline basketball is well known and his teams generate points quickly. In this DVD, he covers the Arizona offensive package from baseline to baseline. Coach Olson makes a point that his teams focus on pressuring the opponent on both ends of the floor. His instruction will demonstrate that point. The fast break is a big part of the Arizona philosophy. The designated lane fast break is keyed off a diagonal cut by the point guard for the outlet pass. Early offensive options include penetration to the lane, high/low post pass or hitting a cutter off a down screen. Post players are taught to "sit on the thigh" of the defender to seal him for the post pass. Against full court or _ court pressure, Arizona runs a pressure offense. After entering to the sideline, a pass to the point guard on a diagonal cut will eliminate the press. This attack is demonstrated against both a diamond and 2-2-1 zone press. This attack can come from a man-to-man or zone set. Once in the half court, a series of 1-4 High set plays serve as the main focus. Olson likes the 1-4 look because of its multiple features and options. From the point guard, the entry pass can go to the wing or post. The idea of "pressure outside, pass inside" allows players to read the defense to determine the proper entry pass. Another set play look is the UCLA series. This set of plays also presents multiple options and scoring opportunities with the chase out, high post and push option. Olson demonstrates a variety of set play options to use in certain game situations. The pick and roll and 1-4 low are great features that fits in well with this set play scheme. This DVD is an excellent example of an attacking, balanced and fundamentally sound approach to offensive basketball.